I have mixed feelings when I read all of this. I am very sympathetic to the OP, and appreciate the OP sharing the story to help others. It seems like Marriott could have compromised and at least offered a partial credit as a one-time goodwill gesture.

That said, I always pay extra (if necessary) to only book refundable (or at least changeable) flights and hotels. It seems rather unfair to people like me if some people just choose to save money and 'risk it', but then expect their money back anyway when something goes wrong and they can't use the reservation.